HOUSTON – Austen Furse, Special Election candidate for the Texas Senate, District 17, to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Kyle Janek, today announced another key endorsement – that of Harris County Republican Party Chairman Jared Woodfill.  This announcement is another in a string of significant grassroots, party, business and industry endorsement.

“I am pleased and honored to have this endorsement,” Furse said.  “I count Jared Woodfill as a friend and ally in many political battles, past, present and future.  He is standing in the breech at a key time for our Party.”

Jared Woodfill is the Chairman of the Republican Party of Harris County.  He was elected first in 2002 and reelected in 2004, 2006 and 2008.  Harris County accounts for about 50% of the votes in Senate District 17.

“The voters of SD-17 need look no further, they have the best candidate.  Austen Furse is a true American Patriot.  He personifies the very best of the Republican ideal.  His advice and counsel has been sought by many in politics, including the President of the United States of America. 

“Austen is conservative through and through.  While many in our Party accept conservative principle on faith, Austen knows the details of what he believes.  He has a depth of understanding and appreciation for policy not often seen outside of the great ‘think tanks” like the Heritage Foundation and American Enterprise Institute.

“Austen has worked tirelessly for the Harris County Republican Party and its candidates.  He has selflessly given of his time, talent and treasure.  He has served on numerous committees and in various advisory roles.  His volunteer work speaks directly to his heart for public service,” Woodfill said.

The campaign also released the names of a growing number of Harris County Republican Party Precinct Chairmen in the District who have endorsed his candidacy.  The list includes Harris County Republican Party Precinct Chairs:

Ramsay Elder – Precinct 15
Roger Gregory – Precinct 87
Salim Ahmad – Precinct 96
William Hunt – Precinct 176
John Young – Precinct 183
Bill Borden – Precinct 215
Arthur Peterson – Precinct 335
Joyce Frost – Precinct 431
John Ulrey – Precinct 589
George Huntoon, III – Precinct 620
Tammi Sturm – Precinct 649
Matthew Albright – Precinct 814

“I am honored to have earned the support of Party leaders.  I will work hard, campaign hard and win the seat.  Republicans who are concerned that 2008 may be a challenging year for our candidates need not fear.  We will not cede this seat to the Democrats,” Furse concluded.